FAN favourite Andrew Nabbout has played his last game for the Newcastle Jets.

Nabbout’s departure to Japanese club Urawa Reds was officially confirmed on Monday, after days of speculation.

Newcastle are expected to reieve a $500,000 transfer fee for the 25-year-old attacker, who scored 18 goals in 46 games for the Jets, including a spectacular matchwinner in the 2-1 triumph against Sydney FC on Saturday.

Nabbout said in a statement: “I’ve loved my time in Newcastle and it’s been an absolute honour to represent the town and the fans, who have stood by us through thick and thin.

“It’s a bittersweet moment to be leaving, we’ve got a great group of lads here and I’m loving my football, but this is an opportunity I can’t pass up – it’s something I’ve worked for for such a long time.

“This club has given me so much and I’ll be forever indebted to the people of Newcastle.

“I’ll certainly be keeping my eye on things from afar and cheering on the boys on as the push on to the finals.”

Jets CEO Lawrie McKinna wished Nabbout well.

“Andrew has been tremendous for us over the last two seasons, both on and off the pitch,” McKinna said.